How to lay slabs with a dry mix

Written by robert raphael

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A patio creates a level area for tables and chairs. (Hemera Technologies/AbleStock.com/Getty Images)

One weekend project for the ambitious homeowner is building a patio. This task may seem daunting, but you can make a patio by simply laying slabs and sealing them in place with a dry mortar mix. A patio gives you a lovely area to plant shrubs for privacy, to have barbecues with family and friends, or enjoy a quiet respite from work.

Skill level:

Moderate

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Things you need

Pen

Paper

Straight edge

Posts

Hammer

String or rope

Shovel

Spade

Hardcore

Level

Plate compactor

Paving slabs

2.5 cm by 2.5 cm (1 inch by 1 inch) pieces of wood (cut to the size of the slabs)

Dry mortar mix

Water

Watering can with fine sprayer

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Instructions

1

Draw a scale plane of where you want your patio and how big you want to make it. Hammer posts into each of the four corners of the area for your patio.

2

Tie a length of string to one from one corner post and run it along the intended side of the patio. Tie it to the post in the next corner. Bring the string from that corner to the next post. Continue until you have roped off the area you intend for your patio.

3

Dig up grass and replant any shrubs or plants to another location. You should be left with an area that is the shape of your new patio, covered with nothing but soil.

4

Dig your foundation by shovelling 15 cm (6 inches) below the surface of the ground. This will help compact the soil and serve as a solid foundation for your patio.

5

Lay down 10 cm (4 inches) of hardcore on top of the exposed soil. Use your straight edge and a level to make sure your foundation is even. When all the hardcore is laid, tamp it down thoroughly using a plate compactor.

6

Start laying the slabs on the hardcore foundation. Use your straight edge, then the level, to make sure that all the slabs are evenly spaced and the edges parallel. Use the rubber mallet to securely tamp the slabs into the foundation. Lay a piece of 2.5 cm by 2.5 cm (1 inch by 1 inch) wood between each slab. Continue until all the slabs are laid.

7

Remove the wood two days after the final slab has been put in place. Fill the spaces between the slabs with the dry mortar mix. Use a watering can with a fine sprayer and sprinkle the mortar mix with water. Allow 48 hours to dry before using the patio.